They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend and for the Mayor of Rotherham this is certainly true, as a special donation signs her time off with a sparkle.

A flawless diamond worth over £2,000 was gifted to Cllr Lyndsay Pitchley as a prize for her Champagne and Diamonds ball, which she is due to hold in April this year, marking her final charity event before vacating office.

Local businessman, Darren Hughes, donated the diamond to the Mayor as a gesture of good-will, in the hope that it will encourage more people to attend the function and raise money for her three charities.

Mr Hughes said: “I have a good relationship with the merchants and thought it would be nice for the Mayor’s final event to have something special as a prize. I’ve known the Mayor for a few years and she’s a real credit to the borough, it’s my way of saying thank you to her for all of her important and brilliant work during her year in office.”

The Champagne and Diamonds ball is a black tie event, with live music and a three-course meal, due to be held on the 29 April at Magna Science Adventure Centre.